Water nightmare

PAIGE TURNER

McCoy said: “It was tremendous to watch. Rory could easily have shot 60 — he can do things few other players can.”

Rising English star Sam Horsfield, 21, underlined his promise with a 68 that took him to nine-under.

But if McIlroy continues to play like this, the rest will feel they are playing for second place.

The four-time Major champion seemed to take it in his stride, but admitted he would love to repeat his 2014 victory here — especially if it proved the springboard for another assault on the big events.

McIlroy followed up that victory four years ago by winning both The Open and the USPGA Championship that year.

He has not added to his Major haul since then but believes that could change this summer.

The world No 8 said: “Obviously I’d love to get a win here again and if that could kick-start a summer like I had in 2014, I’d be all for that. So it’s a big weekend.

“To go bogey-free around here, I think I only missed one green, and not by a lot. It was one of the best rounds of golf I’ve played this year ball-striking-wise.”